The Woodland Park Police Department was one of 28 that was awarded grant funds from the “Detective Matthew L. Tarentino Community Policing Grant Program,” state Attorney General Christopher S. Porrino announced on Tuesday. A total of $219,000 in grant awards were announced for 28 police departments from the program, which provides funds for initiatives aimed at fostering strong police-community relations. The program is named in honor of Det. Tarentino, a Summit police officer who epitomized the goals of community policing.

The WPPD was awarded a grant of $7,810 which they plan to use to organize and host a "community jamboree" this fall at Zaccaria Park. The grant provides funding for staffing on site while continuing the department's regular duties, an estimated five hour picnic, DJ, food, and organized games and activities for children and teens. The event is scheduled for Sept. 30.

The event is aimed at fostering community relations and will provide a chance for residents of all ages to get to know their local law enforcement officers in a casual and fun setting.